Overland Park Police Make 15 Prostitution Arrests

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OVERLAND PARK, Kan. -- The world's oldest profession took a hit in Johnson County with the arrest of eight men and seven women in a prostitution sting.

The arrests started on February 16 and ended on February 19. More than half of the people arrested didn't live in Kansas. Police feel Overland Park's geographic location is tempting.

"I think that's what brings in a lot of people from outside the area," Capt. James Olney said. "Maybe they are just passing through. They happened to see an ad, and they stopped here. It was not a good day to do this."

It doesn't take long to find people willing to pay or get paid to have sex. Even though Overland Park Police wouldn't say how the sting worked, they did say the web creates a huge customer base.

Overland Park Police Capt. James Olney says it can be dangerous for the Johns and the prostitutes.

"The chances of that going bad is there, and you're definitely getting into a high risk lifestyle that can be dangerous," said Capt. Olney.

Despite the risks, police say the activity will continue. That's why they will continue to monitor websites and set up sting operations.

One of the men picked up in the sting was charged with promoting prostitution. Police say people who recruit or force women into prostitution are important targets for them.